Embodiments of a frame structure and grow media for use in vertical aquaponic gardens are described. The frame comprises a substantially rectangular tube structure with attachment points and connection means to hold a grow media in a vertical orientation. The grow media comprises a permeable or non-permeable backing layer having a defined elasticity to facilitate stretching, an activated carbon filter layer attached to the backing layer, one or more capillary biomats attached to the filter layer that physically support the growth of one or more varieties of plants and distribute water to the roots of the plants through capillary action through the area of the grow media, and an optional front panel layer attached to one of the capillary biomat layers, the front panel layer comprising a porous structure made of polypropylene or natural fibers and configured to support the plants growing in a direction substantially perpendicular to the plane the front panel surface.
